The Reasons Why Dogs Snore
Thursday, April 8th, 2010We all know that it is not unusual for pet owners to allow their pets to sleep with them on their beds at night. In fact, one third of pet owners have at some time, permitted their pets to sleep on their beds. Dogs readily provide a companionship that can’t be shown by any other kind of animal. However, this doesn’t mean to say that cat owners do not let their cats or another pets sleep with them too.
It is made easier too because dogs have a sleep pattern that is very much like ours. Dogs often rely on their owners with complete trust, which makes them a bit more relaxed during the night. This explains why most dogs fall to sleep easily and later on, enter into deep sleeps where REM sleep activities can occur. In fact, once dogs enter this stage, the owner needs to call them several times before they can truly be roused from sleep.
Certainly, many of us have observed a dog paddling during sleep and barking while asleep too. These dogs are believed to be dreaming. Breathing patterns can also be observed among dogs while they are asleep. For example, there are breeds which breathe heavily and there are breeds which breathe more lightly. The dogs that are heavy breathers are much more likely to snore than those which do not breathe quite as heavily.
Some people find that dogs that snore are quite a nuisance during the night, depending on the degree and frequency of the phenomenon. Like with humans, there are several reasons why dogs snore, although most deal with the obstruction of the passage of air in the windpipe, which in turn is caused by the collapse of certain areas along the throat. It is the same problem as with human beings.
A dog that snores very badly ought to be checked for various issues to evaluate which treatment can be best applied. Some dogs are especially prone to specific allergic reactions that cause obstruction in the windpipe. It may also be that there is some excess tissue in the areas that are inhibiting correct breathing. It is best if a veterinarian checks on various factors through careful evaluation of the dog’s anatomical features and general physical symptoms.
Maybe, your dog is overweight. As with humans, obese dogs are more likely to snore during the night. This is because they have more flesh surrounding their throats. Therefore, they have excess tissue that hangs around the throat which can potentially cause the obstructions. Once this problem is corrected, the risk of snoring will be decreased. This would not only be healthy for your dogs, you may eventually enjoy nights of restful sleep too.
The facial features of the dog in general affect the amount of snoring too. For example, some dogs have pushed-in faces which narrows their nasal passages to a greater or lesser degree. The construction of their nasal passages also largely contributes to their problems in breathing. They are very much like humans with a cold, who have to breathe using only twenty-five percent of their nostril capacity. Dog breeds with shorter faces need to expend lots of effort to breathe properly. It costs them more effort to breathe and they are also more likely to snore loudly.
Minor surgery can afford your dog great relief. However, be certain that, before you take any decision, you are well educated about the potential risks and consequences of surgery to stop your dog snoring. Most procedures are irreversible, so careful thought must be given to any operation you allow. In fact, it is best to follow the recommendations offered by your veterinary doctor.
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